The discussion has caused me to reflect on what drew me to become a member of The Link. I have to admit, it's more of a feeling or a state of being, rather than a list of practical items.
I've been to hundreds of meetings/events in connection with my careers as both a presenter and as director of PR running the speaker bureau for c-level execs. I've been to all caliber of events, from the elite c-level invitation only Fortune and Forbes events, to the large tech events that draw thousands. The events that stand out in my mind had quality participants and a comfortable feeling of belonging with people I wanted to talk with, as opposed to the events I longed to get away from and run to the solace of my hotel room.
For me - The Link is a comfortable room, bringing together interesting and extraordinary women who offer friendly conversation and genuine interest. I find them all so interesting, and the breadth of their experience stimulating. It seems that the women who are members aren't power networking to get ahead, but are enjoying the company of like-minded women.
Besides that wonderful feeling of belonging, the companion piece is the level of content presented at an event. I feel it is important to have topics that stimulate our thoughts, provoke our beliefs, and challenge us to take action; Presenters who inspire us, who share their battles and victories, their insight and challenges to touch this wonderful group of women. I believe that this is a key offering of The Link.
In the end, it all ties together. Content, presenter, members.
The Link For Women is a community that helps you flourish and reach your full potential by connecting with smart, respected experts and peers from all walks of life as reliable resources. Our events and seminars connect you with other smart, accomplished women, provide knowledge to make informed decisions and inspiration to think beyond in a safe, relaxed environment.
WHY we exist
• To not be alone in transition; to flourish and reach full potential.
HOW we operate
• Connecting and Mentoring through community.
WHAT we provide
• A network of smart, respected experts and peers in all areas of life as reliable resources.
• Knowledge to make informed decisions.
• Inspiration to think beyond.
• A safe environment.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY OF THE LINK FOR WOMEN
• Founded in Portland, OR in March 2004
• 200 paying members
• 8 A Seat at the Table Board of Mentors
• 50+ speakers
• 3500+ attendees of multiday programs and monthly events
WHO ARE MEMBERS OF THE LINK?
• 23 - 65+ yrs. of age
• 21% are between the ages of 20-40; 58% are between the ages of 41-55
• 73% are married
• 74% earn at least $100,000; 29% earn over $200,000
• 48% hold a master or doctorate degree or have completed other post graduate work
• Our members belong to a wide variety of professional, cultural, and charitable organizations and are entrepreneurs, CEOs, presidents, and senior executives as well as philanthropists, community leaders, and moms
• They actively seek safe opportunities to connect with other smart women, to learn something new, and to be inspired!
